CEC Silvers Smash It!

Last weekend, Cowes Enterprise College’s three silver expedition groups embarked on their assessed expeditions. The groups consisted of one sixth form group and two year 10 groups.

On Friday evening, the teams travelled to the picturesque Purbecks to set up camp and familiarize themselves with the surroundings. The expeditions kicked off in earnest on Saturday morning, with all students starting their routes between 8 and 9am. While there were a few deviations along the way, all students successfully reached the checkpoints at designated times, focusing on their expedition aim. After completing their journeys, the students set up their camp areas and prepared a variety of substantial meals, adhering to the 20 expedition conditions.

Sunday presented cooler and wetter weather, but the students showed true determination as they tackled their day two routes. Once again, they set up camp and cooked their meals, demonstrating resilience and teamwork.

Monday brought scorching temperatures, and the students efficiently packed up camp and embarked on their third and final routes. This time, the routes went according to plan without any deviations. The students showcased improved navigation skills and the ability to read an OS map, resulting in successful journeys.

As part of the assessment process, discussions were held with the students, highlighting their experiences.

One student reflected

“The first day was probably the worst day as I was getting used to the long-distance walking. After the first day, I was able to consistently motivate and discipline myself to just walk without thinking about it.”

Another student shared their favorite meal:

“[My favourite food was] day two dinner. I combined two super noodles (one chicken, one curry) and made it into the ultimate super noodles.”

All students successfully passed their expedition section. We look forward to Thursday 6^th July when students are delivering their expedition presentations to reflect on their successes and challenges of their expedition and the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award.